Fusicoccum Canker

Fusicoccum canker Common name Fusiform canker Constriction canker Causal agent It is caused by a fungus of the genus Fusococcum. It is the asexual form of the fungus  Godronia cassandrae. In severe cases, the plant may also die. Scientific name Fusicoccum putrefaciens Symptoms & Signs Fusicoccum canker starts as reddish-brown, water-soaked lesions near the stems or around the wounded areas. As the disease progresses, the lesions develop a gray center, surrounded by a brownish halo giving a bullseye appearance. Over the years, the canker grows, girdling the stems and causing the plant to die. Tiny, dark pycnidia, which are fruiting bodies, are also seen on the canker. Transmission The fungus overwinters in the cankers and releases conidia from the pycnidia, which travel to other healthy plants by means of wind, water, and infected tools and hands. Cool, wet weather, such as spring and rainy season, favors the spread of this disease. Time of concern Early spring to late summer Common hosts Blueberry Peach